Plain English Meaning

Steering information from a navigation system that lets the aircraft fly directly from any point to any other point, instead of having to follow paths between ground radio stations.

Full Definition

Course and position information provided by an area navigation (RNAV) system, allowing the aircraft to fly directly between any two points defined by latitude and longitude rather than only along routes between ground-based navigation stations. RNAV guidance is typically generated by GPS, FMS, or other onboard navigation computers and is presented to the pilot through a course deviation indicator, moving map, or flight director.